Grand Seiko has some exciting launches this Watches and Wonders between a new spring drive movement and the extravagant Tokyo Lion. However, as is often the case with Grand Seiko, it’s the quieter, more serene launches that truly capture the attention. Such is the case with the release of the 44GS Kiri Mechanical SBGW323, a lilac take on their Mount Iwate dial texture.
The Mount Iwate texture first appeared in 2022 with the Evolution 9 Midnight and since then it’s been presented in multiple iterations and colours. Though regardless of the specific details, at the core has always been the rough, radial ridge pattern that’s designed to emulate the view of mountain slopes seen from Grand Seiko’s Shizukuishi studio. The same is true of the new 44GS Kiri Mechanical SBGW323.
Kiri is an alternative name for the purple paulownia, the prefectural flower of the Iwate region. It’s the bell-shaped flower of a small tree that has cultural significance for its symbolic use in haiku, often meaning loneliness due to the low density of leaves the tree produces. Though with the Kiri watch by your side you’ll be anything but lonely as people come over to compliment the lovely shade of purple on your wrist.
On a mechanical and structural front, the SBGW323 is identical to the 2023 Mt. Iwate Autumn Dusk European Exclusive. Which means the case measures a svelte 36.5mm in diameter with a thickness of 11.5mm. The movement inside is the manual-winding 9S64, touting a 72-hour power reserve.
Interestingly it’s a touch more accessible than the Autumn Dusk despite having the same specs, likely due to it not being a region exclusive limited edition. Specifically, it’s £5,100 instead of £5,500. What more do you need from Grand Seiko than a lovely dial, a solid movement and plenty of Japanese charm?
Price and Specs:
Model:
Grand
Seiko Heritage Collection 44GS ‘Kiri’ Mechanical
Ref:
SBGW323
Case:
36.5mm
diameter x 11.6mm thickness, stainless steel
Dial:
Pale
purple, ridged Mount Iwate pattern
Water resistance:
100m
(10 bar)
Movement:
Calibre
9S64, manual-winding, +5/-3 seconds per day accuracy, 24 jewels
Frequency:
28,800
vph (4 Hz)
Power reserve:
72h
Functions:
Hours,
minutes, seconds
Strap:
Stainless
steel bracelet with three-fold clasp with push button release
Price:
£5,100
More details at Grand Seiko.
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